Program Manager Pharma R&D

Job Title: Program Manager Pharma R&D
Location: San Francisco, CA (3 days onsite)
Work Type: ( W2)
GC and USC only

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead large-scale Pharma R&D data and imaging platform initiatives. This role requires strong expertise in RFP leadership, program governance, AI/ML-enabled platforms, and stakeholder management within regulated life sciences environments.

Key ResponsibilitiesRFP Leadership

• Own end-to-end RFP management for Pharma R&D imaging platforms

• Define scope, orchestrate solutions, manage pricing inputs, risks, and submission governance

• Collaborate with data architects, AI/ML leads, clinical SMEs, and delivery teams

• Ensure solutions emphasize open architecture, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and workflow modernization

Program & Delivery Governance

• Lead large-scale R&D imaging data platform programs using hybrid Agile models

• Establish governance frameworks, milestones, dependencies, and risk mitigation plans

• Oversee delivery across multi-vendor / CRO environments

• Track KPIs related to quality, timelines, compliance, and value realization

AI / ML & Imaging Platform Oversight

• Oversee ML-enabled imaging workflows including:

  • Model training & validation

  • Lifecycle management

  • Performance monitoring

• Partner with data science teams to implement:

  • Computer vision

  • Image analytics

  • AI-driven insights

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the primary interface for:

  • R&D IT leaders

  • Data platform heads

  • Architects & scientific stakeholders

• Lead executive reviews, steering committees, and decision-making forums

Required QualificationsDomain & Program Experience

• 15+ years of experience in Program / Engagement Management

• Background in Pharma, Biotech, or Life Sciences

• Proven experience leading:

  • RFPs

  • Large transformation programs

  • R&D IT / Clinical / Data & AI initiatives

• Strong understanding of:

  • Clinical development

  • Clinical operations

  • Research analytics

Regulatory & Quality Awareness

• Working knowledge of GxP, data privacy, and compliance frameworks

• Experience in regulated environments with audit and inspection readiness

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with R&D data platforms

• Certifications such as:

  • PMP

  • PgMP

  • SAFe